Many women notice changes in their menstrual cycle as they get older. It’s an extremely common experience. Sometimes its’ a missed cycle here or there. Or maybe a shorter or longer cycle than normal. Sometimes it may be two periods in a month. Or worse, an extremely heavy cycle. Most of the time these changes happen unexpectedly and can really throw you off. Are these changes normal or should you be concerned?
Fluctuations in the way the body produces the hormones that control the menstrual cycle are more common with age. This is especially true in the decade leading up to menopause (the 40s). These fluctuations can cause any of the above mentioned cycle patterns. Hormonal fluctuations are the most common cause of these problems. Although bothersome, these fluctuations are usually not dangerous.
Unfortunately, as a woman gets older the risk of having other causes of cycle changes increase. These can include growths in the uterus such as polyps or fibroids, or lining overgrowth, adenomyosis (endometriosis of the uterus), problems with the clotting of blood, chronic diseases or medications which affect the cycles. The risk of cancer of the uterus also increases with age.
What To Do
It is important to pay attention to your cycles with regard to duration (how long they last), frequency (how often they come) and amount (how much bleeding there is). I advise my patients to keep track of their cycles on a calendar.
Make an appointment to see a physician if any of the following are present:
- A changed cycle that does not go back to normal
- Prolonged bleeding ( > 7 days)
- Heavy bleeding (using many pads or tampons per day or bleeding that soaks your clothes)
- Your periods stopped and they return again
- You have a known condition of the uterus which can cause bleeding problems
- The change in bleeding pattern is affecting your daily life
- You are worried about the changes
The presence of any of the following symptoms along with heavy bleeding should prompt immediate care in an emergency room:
- chest pain
- shortness of breath
- dizziness
- persistent headache.
We want to be a resource to you in sorting out this problem. Do not hesitate to contact us at (757) 335-7165.
This article is written for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Seek the care of a medical professional in making decisions about your health.